Free the Crypto Prisoners
The war on crypto is over. It’s time to bring our innovators home.
Across the world, innovators who built the foundations of cryptocurrency are being prosecuted under outdated laws.
These “crypto prisoners of war” are visionaries punished not for harming anyone, but for creating tools of freedom and financial independence.
Roman Storm — Tornado Cash Developer
Roman Storm, co-founder of the Tornado Cash privacy protocol, was arrested for writing open-source software that enhanced financial privacy on Ethereum. He faces criminal charges for code he published — not for harming or defrauding anyone.
Tornado Cash is a tool, not a crime: millions used it for legal purposes including donations and privacy.
Roman has raised nearly $600,000 in crypto for his legal defense, with strong support from the crypto community.
His case could set a precedent criminalizing developers for code.
Why It Matters: If Roman is convicted, no open-source developer is safe. Innovation itself will be on trial.
Ian Freeman — Free Talk Live
Libertarian radio host and activist Ian Freeman was sentenced to prison for running a Bitcoin exchange that helped people opt out of the banking system.
He operated openly for years, helping thousands access cryptocurrency.
Despite no evidence of harm, prosecutors portrayed voluntary Bitcoin sales as money laundering.
He is serving an 8-year sentence for empowering people with financial freedom.
Why It Matters: Ian’s case shows how peaceful activism and voluntary exchange can be criminalized when it challenges government control of money.
Roman Sterlingov — Bitcoin Fog
Roman Sterlingov, a Swedish-Russian citizen, has spent years behind bars accused of operating the Bitcoin Fog mixing service. Supporters describe him as a gentle, almost “Mr. Rogers-like” figure — yet he has been targeted as a criminal mastermind without direct evidence tying him to wrongdoing.
Prosecutors relied heavily on questionable blockchain forensics.
He has endured years of pre-trial detention, fighting for his life and reputation.
His supporters argue he is being scapegoated for technology itself.
Why It Matters: Roman’s case highlights how governments weaponize blockchain analysis against individuals — while ignoring presumption of innocence.
Samourai Wallet Founders (Keonne Rodriguez & William Hill)
The creators of Samourai Wallet, a privacy-focused Bitcoin wallet, were sentenced in 2025 and have now reported to federal prison.
Their "crime"? Building software that protects financial privacy.
Prosecutors argued their wallet facilitated money laundering, despite Samourai being a non-custodial tool.
Keonne Rodriguez received a 5-year prison sentence.
Why It Matters: The prosecution of privacy software developers has alarmed civil liberties advocates and the crypto community alike. Many believe the outcome could have lasting implications for privacy tools and open-source development.
Nevin Shetty
Former Fabric CFO Nevin Shetty was sentenced to prison after making a cryptocurrency investment that later collapsed.
His "crime"? Investing in crypto.
As CFO, he helped raise over $240 million and grow Fabric to a $1.5 billion valuation.
Nevin lost his own life savings in the same Terra Luna collapse.
Why It Matters: Failed investments happen every day in business. Many supporters believe Nevin's prosecution sets a dangerous precedent for entrepreneurs, executives, and investors making good-faith decisions in emerging industries.
How You Can Help
Sign the Petition – Add your name to show support for the release of all crypto prisoners.
Donate – Contribute to legal defense funds and advocacy efforts with crypto or fiat.
Write Letters – Send messages of support to prisoners and letters to policymakers demanding justice.
Spread the Word – Share their stories across social media and help raise global awareness.